Ukraine launches counterattack in Kharkiv Oblast

On 22 August, Ukraine's 3rd Separate Assault Brigade launched a counterattack in Kharkiv Oblast, successfully advancing nearly 2 square kilometers into the front line area. According to Brigade Commander Andrii Biletskyi, the primary objective of the operation was to weaken the offensive capabilities of Russia's 20th Army. Biletskyi confirmed that this goal has been achieved.

Russian struck o Kharkiv Oblast killing 1, injuring at least 6

On August 22, Russian forces launched a missile strike on the town of Bohodukhiv in Kharkiv Oblast, resulting in the death of a 57-year-old man and injuring at least six others, including a 15-year-old boy. The attack also wounded a 50-year-old man and two women aged 28 and 45, with the ages of two additional injured women yet to be confirmed. This strike is part of an intensifying pattern of attacks on population centers in Kharkiv Oblast, following a new Russian cross-border offensive in the region's northern part that began in May. Although Ukrainian forces have managed to halt the Russian advance, Russia still maintains control over several border settlements.

Russia building concrete bunkers in Kursk city

On August 22, Russian authorities in the city of Kursk announced the installation of concrete shelters in "crowded places" as Ukraine's incursion into the oblast continues. Acting governor Alexei Smirnov stated on Telegram that the locations for 10 shelters had already been determined, with plans to install a total of 60. The operational headquarters is also considering placing reinforced concrete structures in other settlements across the region.

This development follows Ukraine's advances into Russia's Kursk Oblast, where, according to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukrainian forces have pushed 28-35 kilometers (18-21 miles) into Russian territory as the operation enters its third week. During a visit to Sumy Oblast on the same day, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the capture of another Russian settlement in Kursk Oblast and the taking of additional Russian prisoners of war.

Two civilians killed in Russian bombardment of Sumy Oblast

On August 22, Russian forces launched a deadly attack on Sumy Oblast, targeting the civilian infrastructure in the Esman hromada, Shostka district. The strike, which involved two guided aerial bombs, occurred around 1:00 PM and resulted in the deaths of two men, aged 74 and 67. Additionally, the wife of one of the deceased was injured and has been hospitalized.

In response, the Sumy Oblast Prosecutor's Office has initiated criminal proceedings under Article 438.2 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which addresses violations of the laws and customs of war, combined with premeditated murder. Law enforcement officers are currently documenting the aftermath of this attack.

Russians captured three more villages in Donetsk Oblast

On August 21, Russian forces captured the villages of Komyshivka, Zavitne, and Novozhelanne in Donetsk Oblast, according to the DeepState analytical project. Additionally, they made advancements near Mykolaivka in the same region. These developments indicate ongoing and intensified military activity by Russian troops in Donetsk Oblast, further complicating the situation on the ground.